Japanese Calligraphy Workshop

Experience the Art of Shodo along with Wagashi Tasting at Kozenji Temple

The Art of Slowing Down: Shodo and Wagashi

Trade the crowded city sights for the quiet resonance of a 500-year-old sanctuary. We are gathering at Kozenji Temple, a place that has stood for over five centuries as a peaceful sanctuary in Hirakata.

We’ll start the afternoon in the temple’s historic hall—a space that has been used for reflection and gathering for centuries. Under the guidance of a professional instructor, you’ll explore the rhythmic, calming art of Japanese calligraphy.

Once your artwork is complete, we will move to the temple’s private Japanese garden, where we’ll share some tea and authentic Wagashi (Japanese sweets). These treats are prepared specially for our group to enjoy in the fresh air.

The Experience

A Space with Soul: You’ll be practicing in a hall that is over 520 years old, moving at a slower pace than the busy city outside.
Tea in the Garden: We’ll enjoy our sweets in a historic garden designed by the famous Ishikawa Jozan, featuring a pond that dates back to the temple’s very beginning.
Hands-on & Personal: This isn’t a lecture; it’s a hands-on workshop where you get to create something unique with your own hands.
Warm Local Welcome: Our Japanese neighbors will be there to help with English support and share stories about the temple’s life.

“I’d been running around Osaka all week and this was the first time I actually felt relaxed. It was just a cool way to spend an hour with a local and learn something real. I still have my ink drawing on my wall at home.”

Pricing and benefits

The 4,000 yen participation fee covers everything you need for the afternoon—no hidden costs or extra materials to bring.

Experienced calligraphy teacher who will help you find your rhythm with the brush.
High-quality ink, traditional paper, and the use of professional brushes are all provided.
A serving of authentic Wagashi (Japanese sweets), specially selected for the season, enjoyed with tea in the temple’s private garden.
The rare opportunity to spend time inside a 520-year-old temple hall and its historic landscape garden.
Friendly Japanese locals will be on hand to help with translation and share the history of the temple grounds.

Cancellation Policy
– Free cancellation up to 7 days before the experience
– 50% refund for cancellations made 3–6 days before
– No refund within 48 hours or for no-shows
Materials and sweets are prepared in advance — thank you for your understanding.

Next Available Date

Saturday, May 16th, 2026 From 16:00 to 18:00.

Duration

2 hours

Instructors

Professional calligraphy instructor

Price

¥4,000

What's included

All materials provided, as well as Japanese sweets tasting and green tea. English support available!

Location

Shinshuotaniha Deguchigobo Kozenji

10-minute walk from Keihan Railway’s “Kōzenji Station”

Ready to join?

Because we want to keep this experience intimate and quiet, spaces are limited. Please get in touch to check availability for the May 16th event.

FAQ: Calligraphy & Wagashi at Kozenji Temple

What makes the Kozenji Temple Calligraphy Workshop unique?

Unlike standard classroom sessions, this workshop takes place inside the historic hall of Kozenji Temple, a sanctuary with over 500 years of history in Hirakata. You will practice the art of Shodo (Japanese calligraphy) in a space traditionally used for reflection, followed by a seasonal tea and sweets tasting in a private Japanese garden.

Who will be teaching the calligraphy class?

The workshop is led by a professional Shodo instructor. You will receive expert guidance on traditional brush techniques, stroke order, and the artistic balance of Kanji characters. Whether you are a beginner or have some experience, the instructor will help you create a piece of art you can be proud of.

What is included in the Wagashi tasting?

After the calligraphy session, we serve authentic Wagashi (Japanese sweets) paired with traditional tea. These sweets are carefully selected to reflect the current season and are enjoyed in the temple’s historic garden, which was designed by the famous Ishikawa Jozan. It is a complete sensory experience of Japanese hospitality (Omotenashi).

Is English support available during the workshop?

Yes! While the instructor provides professional technical guidance, friendly local Japanese neighbors and OEH staff are on hand to provide English translation. They also share fascinating stories about the temple’s history and the local community in Hirakata.

How do I get to Kozenji Temple from Osaka or Kyoto?

The temple is a convenient 10-minute walk from Kozenji Station on the Keihan Railway. This line directly connects central Osaka (Yodoyabashi/Kyobashi) and Kyoto (Gion/Sanjō), making it an easy and accessible cultural day trip for travelers staying in either city.

How can I book a spot for the next temple workshop?

Because we aim to keep the atmosphere quiet and intimate, spaces for the Kozenji workshop are strictly limited. Please contact us directly to reserve your spot.